Exodus 7

Chapter Summary

Exodus chapter 7 sets the stage for the ten plagues that God will inflict upon Egypt. The chapter begins with God instructing Moses to tell Aaron to throw down his staff, which becomes a serpent, and then to stretch out his hand to bring forth frogs from the Nile (Exodus 7:1-13, Exodus 7:14-18, Exodus 7:19-22, Exodus 7:23-25, Exodus 7:8-13). Pharaoh's magicians replicate some of these signs, but they cannot reverse them. As the plagues escalate, Pharaoh's heart becomes increasingly hardened, leading to further judgments from God. The chapter concludes with Pharaoh's refusal to listen to Moses and Aaron, despite the miraculous signs they have performed.

Context for the Chapter

Exodus chapter 7 is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The chapter follows God's instruction to Moses to return to Egypt and demand that Pharaoh let the Israelites go. The events of this chapter set the stage for the remaining plagues that God will inflict upon Egypt, ultimately leading to the Israelites' freedom. This narrative is also closely tied to the broader biblical theme of redemption, as seen in the New Testament (Luke 9:31, Acts 3:18).

Heart Application

As we reflect on Exodus chapter 7, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and obeying His commands. We see that God's power and authority are not limited by human rebellion, and that He will ultimately accomplish His purposes. This chapter encourages us to trust in God's goodness and to seek to obey Him, even in the face of opposition or hardship.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Exodus chapter 7 tells the story of God's judgments against Egypt, as Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh with the demand to let the Israelites go. Despite the miraculous signs, Pharaoh hardens his heart, leading to further judgments. As we see in Exodus 7:3, God's sovereignty is on full display, and this chapter encourages us to trust in God's goodness and to seek to obey Him.

Voices from the Church

“The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a solemn reminder of the dangers of resisting the gospel message. As we see in Exodus 7:3, God's sovereignty is on full display, and those who reject His message will ultimately face judgment.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The miraculous signs and wonders performed by Moses and Aaron serve as a testament to God's power and authority. As we see in Exodus 7:1-13, God's power is not limited by human weakness or rebellion.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

1. Introduction to the Plagues (Exodus 7:1-7) — God instructs Moses to tell Aaron to throw down his staff, which becomes a serpent, and then to stretch out his hand to bring forth frogs from the Nile.
2. The First Plague: Water Turned to Blood (Exodus 7:14-18, Exodus 7:19-22) — Moses and Aaron perform the first plague, turning the Nile River into blood, and Pharaoh's magicians replicate the sign, but cannot reverse it.
3. The Second Plague: Frogs (Exodus 7:25-29) — God sends a plague of frogs upon Egypt, and Pharaoh's magicians are unable to reverse the plague.
4. The Third Plague: Gnats (Exodus 7:30-32) — God sends a plague of gnats upon Egypt, and Pharaoh's magicians are unable to reverse the plague.
5. The Fourth Plague: Flies (Exodus 7:33-35) — God sends a plague of flies upon Egypt, and Pharaoh's magicians are unable to reverse the plague.

Core Doctrines

Sovereignty of God

Exodus chapter 7 teaches us about God's sovereignty and control over human affairs, as seen in the hardening of Pharaoh's heart and the miraculous signs and wonders performed by Moses and Aaron.

Redemption

The chapter is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, highlighting God's plan to redeem His people and demonstrate His power over the forces of evil.

The Power of Prayer

Moses' prayers and intercessions serve as a model for us, demonstrating the importance of trusting in God's power and authority in our lives.

The Dangers of Rebellion

Pharaoh's rebellion against God serves as a warning to us, highlighting the dangers of resisting God's message and the consequences of hardening our hearts against Him.

Lessons from Exodus 7

1. The Importance of Obedience — Exodus chapter 7 teaches us about the importance of obeying God's commands, even in the face of opposition or hardship.
2. The Power of God's Sovereignty — The chapter highlights God's sovereignty and control over human affairs, demonstrating His power and authority over the forces of evil.
3. The Dangers of Rebellion — Pharaoh's rebellion against God serves as a warning to us, highlighting the dangers of resisting God's message and the consequences of hardening our hearts against Him.
4. The Importance of Faith and Trust — The narrative of Exodus chapter 7 emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's power and authority, demonstrating the need to trust in Him even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.
5. The Significance of Redemption — The chapter is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, highlighting God's plan to redeem His people and demonstrate His power over the forces of evil.

Themes from Exodus 7

1. God's Sovereignty — Exodus chapter 7 teaches us about God's sovereignty and control over human affairs, demonstrating His power and authority over the forces of evil.
2. Redemption — The chapter is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, highlighting God's plan to redeem His people and demonstrate His power over the forces of evil.
3. The Power of Prayer — Moses' prayers and intercessions serve as a model for us, demonstrating the importance of trusting in God's power and authority in our lives.
4. The Dangers of Rebellion — Pharaoh's rebellion against God serves as a warning to us, highlighting the dangers of resisting God's message and the consequences of hardening our hearts against Him.
5. The Importance of Faith and Trust — The narrative of Exodus chapter 7 emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's power and authority, demonstrating the need to trust in Him even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.

Questions for Meditation

1. What does the hardening of Pharaoh's heart reveal about God's sovereignty and control over human affairs?
2. How do the miraculous signs and wonders performed by Moses and Aaron demonstrate God's power and authority?
3. What lessons can we learn from Pharaoh's rebellion against God, and how can we apply these lessons to our own lives?
4. How does Exodus chapter 7 relate to the broader biblical theme of redemption, and what implications does this have for our understanding of God's plan of salvation?
5. What role does faith and trust in God play in the narrative of Exodus chapter 7, and how can we cultivate these qualities in our own lives?

Detailed Chapter Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Cross References

Sermons on Exodus 7

	Sermon	Description
	Glory of God in Dry Places by Carter Conlon	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the common struggle that believers face when they leave the sanctuary and enter a hostile world. He emphasizes that the devil continuously bo
	I Am the Lord That Healeth Thee by Carter Conlon	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the promised land and draws parallels to the Christian journey. He emphasizes that the call of G
	(Exodus) Exodus 5 Introduction by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the plagues that God sent upon Egypt to reveal His power and superiority over the gods of Egypt. The plagues were not random, but were specif
	(Exodus) Exodus 7:1 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of putting aside the human element and relying solely on God. He quotes Paul's statement that within the flesh dwells no good
	(Exodus) Exodus 7:2-9 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Moses and Pharaoh in the book of Exodus. He compares Pharaoh to King Cole, who wanted to appear generous but was actually hard-h
	(Exodus) Exodus 7:10-13 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the worship of a monster-like creature in ancient Egypt that aimed to prevent the rising of the sun god Ra and create chaos in the form of st
	(Exodus) Exodus 7:14-25 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the biblical story of Moses and the plagues of Egypt. He emphasizes that the river was essential for the livelihood of the nation, but when i
	The Danger of a Compromised Life by Greg Laurie	In this sermon titled "The Danger of a Compromised Life," Pastor Greg Laurie discusses the story of Moses and the Israelites in the book of Exodus. He highlights how the Israelites
	The Baptism of the Holy Spirit Part 1 by Billy Strachan	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the topic of the Holy Spirit. They mention that they have been studying and preparing for this subject for ma
	(Men God Made) Moses by Willie Mullan	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the life of Moses and his journey with God. He highlights how Moses initially felt inadequate and unsure of his ability to lead God's people

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Exodus 7

In Exodus chapter 7, we see a display of God's power and authority over the forces of evil. The hardening of Pharaoh's heart serves to highlight God's sovereignty and control over human affairs, demonstrating His power and authority over the forces of evil. The miraculous signs and wonders performed by Moses and Aaron serve as a testament to God's power and authority, and the plagues that God inflicts upon Egypt serve as a judgment against the nation for its rebellion against God. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's power and authority, and of the dangers of resisting His message and hardening our hearts against Him. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The magicians of Egypt were able to mimic some of the miracles of Moses, but they could not remove the plague, nor could they bring forth the like; for it is God alone that can work miracles, and not the creatures' (Matthew Henry Commentary on Exodus 7:11-12). Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?